The European Commission updated its rule on Ukrainian refugees in the European Union, adding an additional refugee status recognition as the conflict with Russia drags on.
Temporary protection for Ukrainian refugees will now last until 4 March 2027. Additionally, the EU is establishing a simpler system to transition into other legal statuses, offering a pathway for those willing to remain in the host country. This system will include residence permits based on employment or educational status. The need for these new systems was outlined by Executive Vice-President Henna Virkkunen, who said, “Extending temporary protection is a vital step and yet another proof of our solidarity. At the same time, we must prepare for transitioning to other legal statuses and for gradual return and sustainable reintegration when temporary measures no longer apply.”
In addition to this revamped path for integration, the EU will also provide help to those willing to return to Ukraine now and in the future. Together with Kyiv, the EU will facilitate exploratory visits to the country and member states are encouraged to create joint voluntary return programmes with Ukraine. To help make informed decisions, the Commission will help create so-called Unity Hubs across the bloc. Those will serve as information centres, both to facilitate integration and to inform about possible returns to Ukraine.
Magnus Brunner, Commissioner for Internal Affairs and Migration, commented on the new Unity Hubs, saying: “Ukraine needs its people, and we have to help Ukrainians make informed decisions about their future – whether that be to return home or to continue supporting Ukraine from here for the time being. To support this goal, we will lend our full support to the Ukrainian initiative of Unity Hubs.”
To better coordinate these new initiatives and any future involvement of the EU with Ukraine during the war, the Commission has also appointed a Special Envoy for Ukrainians in the EU.
